Ross Connor makes a huge impression at cosy Newport Pagnell gig

We’re familiar with the old adage that good things come in small packages.

But never were truer words spoken than when referring to the solo artist and the two duos that I saw live recently at a popular local bijou venue.

I was at The Sunset Lounge, in The Cannon in Newport Pagnell, which has hosted local music talent for ten years and has grown organically from its popular open mic nights, to regular gig nights too.

The promoters say they pride themselves on diversity, inclusion and making it the best night for everyone.

Adherence to this mantra was very evident as local singer-songwriter Ross Connor chose the venue to launch his new EP, Old School Sessions.

Arriving unfashionably early, I was delighted to see many faces from the local music scene, not just there for Ross and his bandmate Carl Wallace, but also to enjoy support sets from Simon Bailey and Rusty G’s.

Simon Bailey – no stranger to The Sunset Lounge – entertained the early birds in attendance with a confident and captivating set that primed us for a night of awesome live music.

Rusty G’s were up next. As a fan of their recorded work, I was excited to see them live and amazed to witness how two guys could make so much noise in the compact venue and do it so well.

Energetic, assured and raucous, they left me annoyed with myself for not seeing them live sooner!